DIY: Flat Screen TV Wall Mounts

Hand holding a remote aimed at a TV
  • 1-2 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 20-150

Even though the latest television models continue to get thinner and lighter, they are still very wide and can take up a considerable amount of space. Instead of placing your TV on the floor or on a stand, invest in a flat screen TV wall mount. This will not only free up some space, it also adds to the decor of the room and makes the room appear much cleaner and neater. Still, it is important to mount the television very carefully to your wall so it does not fall and break, or damage the appearance of your wall.

Step 1 - Decide Where to Place the TV Mount

After figuring out which room you want your new flat screen TV in, decide exactly on which wall you want to hang it on. It should be positioned on a wall that can be easily seen from the different seating areas. Also, consider any windows or doors that may cause a glare when light enters through them. Also note there are different types of wall TV mounts, some of which come out from the wall slightly and swivel while others only face straight ahead.

Step 2 - Measure the Wall Area

bedroom in neutral tones with wall mounted TV

After eying the wall that you want to place the TV on, measure the area to make sure it really is the best place for it to hang. It may seem proportional at first, but by measuring the area, you will get a better idea of how it will look. It should not be too overwhelming or too small.

Step 3 - Ask for Help

Mounting a flat screen TV is not hard to do, but it requires assistance. It is best to have at least one other person to help you, but having two more people is ideal. One can help you with the heavy lifting while the other person directs. This will not only be safer but it can save you time as well.

Step 4 - Take the TV Out of the Box

Before taking the TV out of the box, put some towels, old sheets, or newspapers on the floor. Gently place the TV on this ‘bed’ so it doesn’t scratch the floor.

Step 5 - Locate Wall Studs

The studs in the wall help to safely support the television. Use a stud finder to locate them and then mark those positions with a pencil.

Step 6 - Put Up the Wall Mount

Living room with fireplace and wall mounted TV

Using the marked locations to direct you put up the first half of the wall mount in that position. Use the screws that came with the package to keep the mount in place, and then tighten with a wrench. Now tightly screw the second part of the wall mount on the back of the TV. Make sure it is tight enough to hold the weight of the TV.

Step 7 - Place the TV on the Wall

Fit the first half of the mount onto the second half to start putting the TV onto the wall. Make sure they fit together correctly and then lock both halves of the mount together.

Step 8 - Check the Mount

See if the mount is secure by gently tugging the mount. Even though you have checked it, the mount may still not be securely attached and can start to drop after a few hours. The best thing to do is to keep away from it for a few hours and check it again when you return. If it is stable, then you have properly attached the mount and TV.